Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam (or your favorite fruit jam)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer (or whisk)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Cookie scoop or spoon
- Small thumbprint tool (or your thumb!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s dive into the baking process! First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is where the magic begins; the smell of butter and sugar coming together is simply divine! Next, beat in the vanilla extract and almond extract if you’re using it. Once everything is well incorporated, sift together the flour and salt, and gradually add it to the butter mixture until just combined. The dough might seem a bit crumbly at first, but don’t worry, it will come together beautifully. (See the next page below to continue steps…)